Laboratory Scientist – Public Health Microbiology

About the role

World Vision is hiring a Laboratory Scientist in Port Moresby on a local fixed-term contract. The role covers routine food and water testing and microbiology surveillance for public health, under the direction of a Team Leader.

Key responsibilities

• Test routine food and water samples and samples collected in response to waterborne, foodborne and diarrhoeal outbreaks.
• Contribute to national antimicrobial resistance (AMR) surveillance reference testing, including confirmatory testing, biorepository support and external quality assessment coordination.
• Monitor sample quality and flow, liaise with counterparts to fix sample issues, ensure proper storage and support sample shipment to other reference labs.
• Analyse microbiology data, prepare national surveillance reports and datasets for global systems, and support research sample testing and data management.
• Evaluate laboratory equipment, reagents and consumables and coordinate external quality assurance programs across Papua New Guinea.
• Maintain client confidentiality, follow SOPs and policies, and build relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in medical laboratory science with proven public health laboratory and microbiology experience.
• At least 2 years in a public health laboratory, including 2 years at Biosafety Level 2 or above in microbiology.
• Working knowledge of sterile laboratory techniques and sample handling.
• Knowledge of a Laboratory Quality Management System, workplace and safety standards and risk management.
• Ability to manage resources during emergencies such as outbreaks, pandemics and natural disasters, and to work under pressure and in teams.
• Willingness to travel, work weekends and on short notice, and speak and write good English.

Required skills

• Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Data analysis and statistical analysis packages.
• Attention to detail and resourcefulness in complex situations.